Vessel
If I were more of a fisherman or if I lived closer to the sea, the word, vessel may bring to my mind more of an object that navigates water. But fishing is not my jam. Fishing is my husband’s jam and I’m grateful that he typically enjoys some form of it every single day. Most days, twice a day. On days that he has opportunity to venture out to a lake he spends significant time preparing his vessel and all the items of equipment that pertain to his purpose. Success is not based on his equipment; it’s mostly rewarded by his giftedness for understanding the subject. Fish. He has countless hours of experience, was taught by skilled fishermen and has varied experiences that have helped him grow into the fisherman that he is today. He has claimed to have not had a bad day fishing, has learned from every trip and doesn’t get upset over days that the fish don’t bite. He is ready to go fishing at any time, any day, any type of weather.
What draws me is the type of vessel that Timothy talks about in 2 Timothy chapter 2. Specifically verse 21, “Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for good work.” The chapter continues with instructions on how to do so and ends with why.
The “why” is what drives me.
Other places in scripture, which are more recognizable to many, refer to a vessel like a pot with God being the potter and mankind being the clay.
It is easier for me to consider myself in that manner; being molded by God, breakable, porous. As a Christ Follower I must continually ask for conviction so that I can be more like Jesus therefore imagining God forming me on the potter’s wheel into a vessel to be utilized for His purposes and His glory. Conviction would cause my shape to be different from other “pots.” Submission would allow me to be a pliable clay, a type of clay that would smoothly give into the shape the potter desired for his use. Obedience would keep me from shattering, and allow me to give, pour out, and share the contents he fills me with.
My prayer would be that I could be made into a strawberry pot. Tall to hold much. Many avenues with which to pour out the Truth that He plants in my heart. I want His truth to blossom and reach out! The fruit to be plentiful and fresh, kissed by the SON!
It is my jam to be a vessel for the Lord! I enjoy it every single day. All throughout the day. I spend significant time preparing this vessel and tweaking the equipment God has gifted me with. Through prayer and study of His word, He molds me into the disciple He calls me to be and with experience and practice, I too can be skilled with grace to enjoy every day and not become discouraged when the world doesn’t “bite” at the fruit I try to share. I have the best teacher too! The utmost professional! Jesus Christ!
